Catnip

Common Name:

Catnip

Botanical Name:

Nepeta cataria

Short Description:

Catnip is a gentle nervine and digestive herb traditionally used to calm anxiety, relieve colic, and support restful sleep—especially in children. It also promotes sweating during fevers and eases menstrual cramps.

Parts Used:

Leaves and flowering tops

Actions:

Nervine, carminative, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, mild sedative

Energetics:

Cooling, slightly drying

Body Systems:

Nervous, digestive, immune, reproductive

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Encourages softness, rest, and childlike openness. Catnip soothes emotional agitation and gently restores peace—especially in the overstimulated or energetically frayed.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Moon
Dosha: Balances Vata and Pitta

Safety Notes:

Very safe for children and adults. Best fresh or freshly dried. May be overstimulating to actual cats (not for feline medicinal use in this context).